Quick-Release Fastener With Flared Notch for Locking Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick-release fastener devices for attaching tools to machine arms are prone to improper locking due to soil or waste introduction between connection parts, leading to potential unhooking and falling during machine operation.
Innovation Solution
The device incorporates a flared notch on the front edge of the base plate to prevent soil or waste entry, along with a locking hook design that ensures secure engagement and includes complementary shapes and surfaces for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the locking plate is made slidable to enable quick-release function, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to risk of improper locking from soil or waste introduction
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is segmented into distinct functional zones: a notched front edge zone to prevent soil ingress, a central locking zone with the locking hook, and rear coupling zones. This segmentation allows each area to perform its specific function while maintaining overall reliability during the quick-release operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The notched front edge of the base plate is designed in advance to prevent soil or waste from entering between the connection parts during the locking operation. This preliminary protective measure counteracts the potential harmful effect of contamination before it can cause improper locking, thereby maintaining reliability while preserving the slidable quick-release function.
2Strength
If the locking hook is designed to engage with the locking plate, then the strength of connection is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional locking components
Solution Approach 1:
The locking hook is integrated directly into the base plate structure rather than being a separate component. The locking hook and base plate form a unified element, which simplifies the overall device complexity while maintaining the strength of connection through the locking engagement with the slidable locking plate.
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate serves multiple functions: it provides the structural foundation, incorporates the locking hook for secure engagement, includes the notched front edge for soil prevention, and supports the coupling pins. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining connection strength.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a safer and more reliable locking mechanism that prevents accidental unhooking during impacts or vibrations, ensuring the tool remains securely attached to the machine arm.
Implementation Method 1
a slidably mounted locking plate biased by spring means
Data Source
AI summary
Quick-release fastener including a first connection part for attaching to a tool and a second connection part for attaching to an arm of a machine, the first part including a base plate with a front and rear edge, a coupling pin or hook protruding from the lower face of, and a locking hook protruding from the upper face of, the base plate. The second part includes a hook or pin to couple to the coupling pin or hook of the first part, and a slidably mounted locking plate, the locking hook of the first part passing through a through-opening formed in the slidable locking plate of the second part to hook to an edge of the opening once the locking plate has slid to lock the quick-release fastener device. The front edge of the base plate of the first part defines a notch, in particular in a flared shape.